Church Ushers Manual - A Handbook for Church Ushers and All Others Who Would Promote the Spirit of Fellowship in the House of God

By Williso O. Garrett

A guide from the late 19th century instructing people in the etiquette of the church. Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Read Books Ltd.
• Release date: Jan 4, 2013
• ISBN: 9781447485865

Book preview

THE USHER

I. Starting Right

1. The very foundation of efficiency in this work lies in having a right mental attitude toward it. Start right by seeing it in its large proportions. Weigh its values. Ponder over its possibilities. Be impressed with its importance. Hold it in high esteem.

2. Think of it primarily as real Christian service. It is Kingdom work. You are working under Divine orders. Take this as your working motto: I serve the Lord Christ. As you repeat it to yourself over and over again, the Spirit will direct you as you turn your attention to a guest.

3. Resolve to give it the best that is in you. Measure up to your opportunity. Magnify the office with a whole-hearted service. And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as unto the Lord and not unto men: knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ (Col. 3: 24).

4. You are receiving guests in the Church of Christ. It is of utmost importance that Christ has first place in your own heart.

5. Constantly recall that all Christian work is accomplished by the Holy Spirit. He works through human instrumentality. Therefore at the very start, surrender yourself to Him and give Him a chance to work wondrously through you. Mingle prayer with your service. Get on to your knees and actually talk to God about this. Consciously turn your thoughts often to Him while performing your duties. Trust and obey Him and your deeds will count eternally.

II. The Usher as Host

(A) MEETING THE GUEST, OR THE POINT OF CONTACT:

1. Frequently remind yourself of the fact that the way in which things are done is often more important than the things themselves. This is true of church-ushering.

2. Present a neat personal appearance. First impressions count much. A well-groomed host appeals to observant people, while one who is careless in this regard is oft-times repellent. Not that one should be fastidious or fussy about his dress. Overdoing it is almost as bad as the other extreme. Neat, tasteful simplicity is what is wanted.

3. Conduct yourself with an air of cultured dignity. This does not mean that you show stiffness or haughtiness, but merely that you go about your duties in such a way that others may perceive that you have an appreciation of the importance of your office. Note carefully that we do not say, the importance of yourself.

4. Do not entertain the idea that you have been chosen as an usher for your own pleasure or that the church may show you off to the guests. It is possible that you may have a pleasant time and also claim a certain amount of admiration while you are engaged in your work; but this will be incidental. You have been chosen because your fellow church members believe you know how to show the host spirit. Your duty is to make people comfortable. Do not let self become mixed up in this or you will be a failure.

5. Let your every expression convey the idea of friendliness. Without this you will never rank high as an usher. Put your heart into your service in such a manner that your guest will see and feel it. Envelop him in an atmosphere that will melt him